DUBAI: As smartphones continue to distract walkers, authorities are warning that the consequences are no longer limited to fines — they could be fatal.

According to the Ministry of Interior, 195,627 pedestrian violations have been recorded across the UAE so far this year — a sharp reminder that walking the streets comes with serious responsibility.

Among these, 177,554 violations were due to crossing roads from non-designated areas, commonly known as jaywalking. The highest number was recorded in Abu Dhabi (109,260), followed by Dubai (35,233), Ajman (30,228), Sharjah (2,044), Fujairah (772), and Umm Al Quwain (17).

Additionally, 18,073 pedestrians were caught ignoring traffic signals, with Abu Dhabi once again leading the chart with 13,043 violations, followed by Dubai (4,990), Sharjah (23), Ajman (11), and Fujairah (6).

Although current law does not penalize phone use while walking, crossing from undesignated areas carries a Dh400 fine, and under new traffic laws, if such behavior causes an accident, it could lead to jail time and fines between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000.

The updated legislation also prohibits pedestrians from crossing roads with speed limits above 80 km/h, holding them civilly or criminally liable for accidents that result from non-compliance.

With increasing concerns over road safety, police are urging residents to stay vigilant, use designated crossings, and avoid distractions — especially mobile phones. Authorities are also calling for greater public awareness and education campaigns to instill a stronger culture of road safety.

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